2006 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Infiniti M
To start off, 2012 Infiniti M is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Kia Optima would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Infiniti M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Infiniti M (360 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Infiniti M should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 127 kg more than 2012 Infiniti M.
Because 2012 Infiniti M is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Infiniti M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. 2012 Infiniti M has automatic transmission and 2006 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2006 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Infiniti M will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2012 Infiniti M | |
| Make | Kia | Infiniti |
| Model | Optima | M |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1873 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4945 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1844 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2901 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 67 L |
